MIDDLETOWN — Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties sixth annual Community Breakfast celebrated the profound difference the organization makes through caregivers who shared touching stories of supporting patients during their final life journey.

The “Real Stories, Real Impact” panel discussion was moderated by Eric Gatsik, President and CEO of Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties and Heather Bell-Meyer, President and CEO of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. About 115 attendees at the Barn at Villa Venezia connected, reflected and were inspired by stories of love, dignity and trust offered to patients at the end of their lives.

“Hospice care holds a unique and vital place in our healthcare system. It reminds us that even when a cure is no longer possible, care always is,” Gatsik told attendees. 

The event included two check presentations. The Orange County Chapter of the Nam Knights of America M.C. generously donated $2,500 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4662 in Warwick supported Hospice’s invaluable work with a $300 donation. The emotional panel discussion then explored stories of courage, meaningful moments and life transitions.

David Terwilliger of Cornwall, whose wife Maureen was cared for by Hospice for four months, was so moved by the compassion he witnessed that he chose to give back by serving on Hospice’s Board of Directors as Board Secretary. “You don’t know what end-of-life care and dignity mean until you experience it like I and my family did,” he said.

Rafael Colon of Warwick, served in the United States Air Force and as a New York City Police Department officer. As a Hospice volunteer since 2024, he sits vigil with veterans in their final days. He was inspired to volunteer at Hospice after attending a veterans’ breakfast. “There’s so much need for this help,” he said, offering that Hospice volunteerism is another aspect of his commitment to public service.

“These stories remind us of what Hospice truly represents,” Gatsik said. “They speak to the compassion that defines this organization, and they show that Hospice care is not about endings. It is about connection, gratitude and the moments that matter most.”

Contributed story from Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties